There are two basic types of mechanical water filters: depth filters and surface filters. These water filters both work by capturing sediment. Depth filters have progressively sized openings, and their particle size rating reflects the amount of sediment they can handle. Unlike surface filters, however, a large percentage of particles will still pass through. This makes depth filters ideal for areas with large particulate loads. They are designed to handle large amounts of particulate without clogging.
There are many types of mechanical water filters. They are generally used at municipal water treatment plants to remove sediment, dirt, and other particles from the water. These filters remove large debris as well as pathogenic organisms. The micron rating of a mechanical water filter can range from 5 microns to one micron. This is enough to remove most particles, including cysts, but not all contaminants. However, if you want to make sure your water is completely clean, you may have to use more than one filter.
Unlike biological filters, mechanical filters must be cleaned frequently. Because of their small volume, bacteria and other microorganisms can build up on the surface of the filter element, which can be harmful to fish. The bacteria in a mechanical filter oxidize organic compounds to produce almost harmless substances. If the filter does not have enough oxygen, it may produce highly toxic compounds that can be harmful to fish. A mechanical water filter needs a continuous flow of oxygen to work effectively.
